A Powerful Ally in Fighting Stroke And Heart Attack - Banana!

Daily intake of bananas and other potassium-rich foods can prevent heart attacks and stroke, experts say after analyzing the latest research.

The results of a study carried out by experts at the University of Alabama have shown that potassium-rich foods can stop deadly blockages by not allowing the walls of the artery to harden over time.

Scientists conducted research in mice at high risk of heart disease after consuming a high amount of fat. The mice were then fed to high, normal and low potassium levels.

Arteries of mice that entered low levels of potassium were much more problematic. On the other hand, in individuals who consumed larger amounts of potassium, arteriosclerosis was less frequent. Also, it was observed that those mice fed to foods with higher amounts of potassium had lower stiffness of blood vessels.

Dr. Mike Napton of the British Association for the Study of Heart Disease said recent studies have shown that the lack of potassium in the body causes arterial hardening.

Scientists believe that potassium has the ability to regulate genes that maintain arterial flexibility.

The average daily intake of potassium should be 3,500 milligrams, experts advise. In addition to bananas, this mineral is also present in spinach, tomato and potatoes.